How to get rid of lice on laundry? - briefly
Wash contaminated fabrics in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) with detergent, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Seal any untreated items in a sealed bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of lice on laundry? - in detail
To remove head‑lice infestations from garments, follow a systematic approach that combines heat, chemical treatment, and thorough cleaning of the washing environment.
First, separate all potentially contaminated items—socks, underwear, hats, pillowcases, and any fabric that has contacted an infested person. Place them in a single load to avoid cross‑contamination with clean laundry.
Apply a pre‑wash solution. Options include:
- Commercial lice‑killing spray labeled safe for fabrics; spray evenly and let sit for the recommended contact time (usually 5–10 minutes).
- A mixture of 0.5 % permethrin diluted in water; apply with a spray bottle and allow the same dwell period.
After the pre‑treatment, load the items into the washing machine. Set the cycle to the hottest temperature the fabric can tolerate; for most cotton and synthetics, 130 °F (54 °C) or higher is sufficient to kill lice and their eggs. Use a full dose of regular laundry detergent; adding a small amount of bleach (up to ½ cup) for white fabrics increases efficacy, while color‑safe bleach works for colored items.
Once the wash completes, transfer the garments to a dryer. Use the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; dryer heat reliably exterminates any surviving stages. If a dryer is unavailable, air‑dry in direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet exposure also contributes to mortality.
Finally, sanitize the washing equipment. Run an empty hot‑water cycle with bleach or a commercial washing‑machine sanitizer. Wipe the drum, door seal, and detergent dispenser with a disinfectant wipe. Vacuum any lint traps and surrounding floor areas to remove stray insects.
To prevent recurrence, wash all household linens weekly at high temperatures, avoid sharing personal items, and inspect new clothing before bringing it into the home. Regular inspection of hair and scalp, combined with the described laundering protocol, ensures complete eradication.